The BMW 730i Steptronic, part of the G11 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift generation of the 7 Series, was produced from 2019 to 2022. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the 7 Series lineup, it aimed to provide a taste of BMW’s flagship luxury and technology at a more accessible price point. This variant utilized a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, representing a downsized approach to power delivery in the large luxury sedan segment. The G11 LCI brought styling updates, enhanced technology, and refined engine options to the already successful G11 platform, which debuted in 2015.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series (G11 LCI, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 730i (249 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 145.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 249 Hp @ 5000-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 124.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1550-4500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1550-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B48B20 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l (5.55 US qt | 4.62 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2385 kg (5258.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 78 l (20.61 US gal | 17.16 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5120 mm (201.57 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2169 mm (85.39 in.) |
| Height | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm (120.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 902 mm (35.51 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1148 mm (45.2 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 730i Steptronic is powered by BMW’s B48B20 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and performance. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and BMW’s VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and lift system, along with Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. These technologies work in concert to optimize combustion, improve throttle response, and enhance fuel economy. The engine produces 249 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. The eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, offering smooth and quick shifts. It features adaptive shift programs that adjust to the driver’s style and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 730i Steptronic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing smoothness and quietness over outright performance. While the 249 hp engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising, it doesn’t offer the same level of acceleration as the 740i or 750i models. The Steptronic transmission is well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes and contributing to the car’s relaxed demeanor. The rear-wheel drive configuration offers a balanced feel, and the optional air suspension further enhances ride comfort. Compared to a manual transmission equipped 7 Series (not typically offered with this engine), the Steptronic provides greater convenience and ease of use, but sacrifices some driver engagement. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 730i Steptronic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting a luxury sedan. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and parking sensors. Optional extras included upgraded leather options, massaging seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera. The interior trim could be customized with various wood and metal accents.
Chassis & Braking
The 7 Series G11 LCI utilizes a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension features a double-wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link design, also with a stabilizer bar. Air suspension was often equipped, providing adjustable ride height and damping for enhanced comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 730i Steptronic was generally well-received by critics as a sensible and efficient entry point into the 7 Series range. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the four-cylinder engine lacked the prestige and performance expected of a flagship luxury sedan. Compared to the 740i (with its inline-six engine), the 730i offered lower running costs but less exhilarating performance. Compared to the 750i (with its V8 engine), the performance difference was even more significant. The 730i appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort, efficiency, and value over outright performance.
Legacy
The B48 engine, used in the 730i, has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant. While some early examples experienced minor issues with the timing chain tensioner, these were largely addressed with updated parts. The Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission is also known for its reliability. On the used car market, the 730i Steptronic represents a relatively affordable way to experience BMW’s flagship luxury sedan. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. The car’s combination of comfort, technology, and efficiency continues to make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a luxurious and practical grand tourer.
